How to check if Windows is up to date

Whatever version of Windows you have installed, it is essential to keep your computer up to date to avoid being attacked by hackers

Hacking attacks in recent years that have affected millions of users have highlighted how important it is to keep your pc up to date. Malware exploits vulnerabilities in operating systems to infect devices and stop smartphones and computers from working.

Most often malware, especially ransomware, which blocks access to computer data and demands a ransom, exploits flaws that Microsoft has already plugged. But users who constantly update their operating system can be counted on the fingers of one hand and hackers have an easy time infecting computers. Checking if Windows is up to date is very simple and it only takes a few minutes to find out if your computer may end up in the crosshairs of hackers.

How to check the Windows version installed

The first move, then, to limit the damage is to keep Microsoft's operating system up to date. A task that is not only easy to put into practice, but also necessary for the security of our Windows devices. How to do it? First, you have to check the Windows version you have installed. Very easy. There are several ways. The fastest way is to press the Windows key (to understand the one with the logo in the shape of a window) plus the letter "R". In the "Run" window which you will see later, type the word winver and press "ok". At this point, take note of the installed build. This procedure is best used if you are looking for a single update.

The easiest way to fix a Windows bug is to let the computer itself check if the PC is up to date with the latest version. The process is slightly different depending on the operating system installed.

How to update Windows 10

Let's start with Windows 10. Find the search bar (at the bottom left of the screen) and type "Settings". Next, click on "Update and Security." Now, press on the "Check for updates" option. It is a good idea, however, to check under 'Advanced options' that the 'Automatic (recommended)' item is active. That way, you'll no longer have to worry about checking for updates manually. Now all you have to do is install the updates.

To check if the procedure was successful, you'll have to check the installed updates. All you have to do is, from 'Advanced Options', click on 'View Update History'. And that's it.

How to update Windows 7

If you're still using Windows 7, to check if your PC is up-to-date against the latest threats, click on "Start", type "Update" and then select "Windows Update". Here all you have to do is press "Change Settings" and "Important Updates". Then, simply select "Install updates automatically (recommended choice)" and your pc will do the rest.

If you again want to check what updates have been downloaded, go to "Control Panel", "Programs and Features" and click on "View Installed Updates".